The Head Of The River

I went to the pub, not the hotel. It’s right by the river and has a big outdoor seating area that’s lovely in milder weather. Pint prices are standard, though cocktails cost a bit more. It gets very busy in summer, so expect a reasonable wait at the counter.

My top-floor room was clean, well equipped and a good size, though the walls don’t block sound particularly well. I could hear the private bar event until people had gone to bed. Check-in was polite and efficient. The location is great, but with no parking, staying just one night took a little extra planning. Breakfast was very pleasant, and if that reflects what the kitchen can do, I’d recommend eating there. I was there for one night on business and arrived late.

The location is lovely, but the nearest paid parking was inside the congestion charge zone. £38 for 24-hour parking plus £10 for two days of congestion charge made the overnight stay more expensive than we expected. Our room was attractive, with a nice bed, shower and decor, though the single-pane windows let in a lot of outside noise. Breakfast was delicious, but the staff were neither helpful nor attentive. At check-in, someone rushed through the breakfast times and other details. We returned at 1810 and were told food had stopped at 6, with only a brief, insincere apology for not making that clear. Neither that staff member nor the colleague eating behind her offered much help or alternatives. Since it was New Year’s Day and other local places were shut, we walked about 15 minutes to Voco Spires hotel and had a lovely meal there. Their staff were kind and accommodating even though we weren’t guests. Later, when we came back for a drink, we were told the residents’ 15% discount didn’t apply unless we ordered food. At breakfast, staff noisily cleared cutlery into trays, dragged chairs and sprayed tables nearby. The room itself was lovely, but the service was disappointing.

The room was roomy and comfortable, and breakfast was delicious. We were made to feel at home straight away by the receptionist, and honestly everyone on staff was so kind. We had a lovely stay and dinner was great too. I’d definitely recommend it and can’t wait to come back sometime.